Global warming refers to the long-term rise in Earth's average surface temperature due to human

activities, especially the emission of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane
(CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, creating a "greenhouse
effect" that leads to an increase in global temperatures.

Causes of Global Warming

1. Burning Fossil Fuels: The combustion of coal, oil, and natural gas for energy and
transportation is the primary source of CO2 emissions.
2. Deforestation: Trees absorb CO2, and cutting them down reduces the Earth's capacity to
mitigate CO2 levels.
3. Industrial Processes: Manufacturing and other industrial activities release various
greenhouse gases.
4. Agriculture: Farming activities, particularly livestock production, generate significant
methane and nitrous oxide emissions.
5. Waste Management: Decomposing organic waste in landfills produces methane.

Effects of Global Warming

1. Rising Temperatures: Increased average temperatures lead to more frequent and severe
heatwaves.
2. Melting Ice Caps and Glaciers: Warming causes polar ice to melt, contributing to rising
sea levels.
3. Sea Level Rise: Rising temperatures cause thermal expansion of seawater and melting
ice, which lead to higher sea levels, threatening coastal areas.
4. Extreme Weather Events: There is an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme
weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and heavy rainfall.
5. Impact on Ecosystems: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns disrupt
ecosystems, leading to shifts in species distributions and increased extinction rates.
6. Human Health Risks: Increased heat can cause heat-related illnesses and deaths, while
changing weather patterns can affect the spread of infectious diseases.

Mitigation and Adaptation

1. Reducing Emissions: Transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and
hydro power can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Energy Efficiency: Improving energy efficiency in buildings, transportation, and
industries can lower emissions.
3. Reforestation and Afforestation: Planting trees and restoring forests help absorb CO2
from the atmosphere.
4. Sustainable Agriculture: Practices like crop rotation, reduced use of chemical fertilizers,
and improved livestock management can decrease agricultural emissions.
5. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Technologies that capture and store CO2
emissions from power plants and industrial sources can help mitigate global warming.
 6. Adaptation Strategies: Developing infrastructure to cope with the effects of global
warming, such as building seawalls, improving water management systems, and creating
heat-resistant crops, can help societies adapt to changes.

Global Efforts

International agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to unite countries in the fight against
global warming by setting targets to limit global temperature rise and reduce greenhouse gas
emissions. These agreements emphasize the need for collective action, financial support for
developing countries, and regular progress reviews.

Individual Actions

Individuals can contribute to mitigating global warming by:

 Reducing energy consumption (e.g., using energy-efficient appliances, reducing car

travel).
 Supporting renewable energy sources.
 Reducing waste and recycling.
 Eating a plant-based diet to lower methane emissions from livestock.
 Supporting policies and leaders who prioritize climate action.

Global warming is a pressing issue that requires immediate and sustained efforts from
governments, industries, and individuals to protect our planet for future generations.